The United Kingdom is moving toward banning ownership of the American Bully XL breed. Beginning immediately, owning one of these dogs without proper registration is set to become a criminal offense. The move comes as authorities cite serious concerns about safety and public welfare, framing the breed as a contributor to deadly incidents and to broader social fears.
The ban was announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak last year after a sequence of reported dog attacks and widespread public concern. The public debate highlighted the breed’s large size and powerful appearance, which some view as a status symbol while others see as a risk to communities.
One eyewitness account from Sonia Faleiro, age 46, described an attack by three American Bully XL dogs in a London park. The incident resulted in the death of her pet Jack Russell and serious injuries to her husband, who intervened in the attack, according to Reuters reporting. The case underscores the perceived danger posed by the breed in densely populated areas.
A timeline of the breed in the United Kingdom
The American Bully XL began appearing in the UK during the 2010s. It is a large hybrid that includes breeds such as the American Pit Bull Terrier. The breed’s size and strength have made it a target for illegal dog fighting circles and a magnet for buyers seeking an imposing dog.
More than 30,000 American Bully XL dogs have been registered under exemptions that allow owners to keep them under strict controls. These controls include muzzle use in public spaces and mandatory neutering to prevent breeding.
Penalties for noncompliance are severe. Unregistered owners face substantial fines and potential imprisonment for up to six months. In repeat offenses, there is a higher likelihood of required euthanasia for the animal. These penalties are intended to curb illegal ownership and reduce the risk of dog attacks.
The Campaign for the Evidence-Based Regulation of Dangerous Dogs points to data showing a rise in fatal dog attacks in England and Wales. Reported deaths increased from about three per year prior to 2021 to roughly ten per year in 2022 and 2023, a trend cited in support of the ban.
Terry Wigzell, who lives with two Bully XL dogs, argues that the ban targets dogs rather than owners who misuse them. He contends that punishment should focus on irresponsible behavior rather than appearance.
In September, Prime Minister Sunak announced the ban, describing these dogs as a danger to communities, with particular concerns for children. The national perspective emphasizes safeguarding public spaces and reducing the likelihood of severe injuries in residential areas.
The RSPCA, the United Kingdoms largest animal welfare charity, supports urgent measures to protect the public but calls for a broader, non species-specific approach to dangerous dog regulation. This position highlights the ongoing debate about whether breed-specific laws best address safety concerns or if universal controls on all dangerous dogs are more effective.